Kiharu Member of Parliament (MP) Ndindi Nyoro has criticised the government over what he describes as insufficient funding for Kenya’s basic education, calling for a clear and honest discussion on the allocation of resources to schools.

In a statement shared on X on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, Ndindi Nyoro warned that the current system of funding leaves schools under-resourced and struggling to meet basic operational needs.

“Capitation and education funding: We must have a deliberate, concise and honest discussion in Kenya regarding the funding of Free Basic Education. Human Capital is the most important resource in Kenya. Basic Education is the Foundation. We thank all Kenyans who spoke against the regressive plans to increase School Fees” Nyoro stated.

Arrears owed

Ndindi Nyoro highlighted a recent government allocation for senior secondary schools, pointing out that arrears owed from the previous year significantly reduced the funds available for current operations. He argued that the actual capitation per student is far too low to run schools effectively.

“After unsuccessfully planning to increase fees for Day Secondary Schools, the Government released a circular and disbursed some funds.
Case in point for Senior Secondary: Ksh 26 billion was released. However, GoK had arrears of Ksh 22.5billion owed to Schools for the year 2025. It therefore means they only disbursed Ksh 3.5billion which is equivalent to Ksh109 per learner for the 1st term. How are the Principals supposed to run Schools with Ksh 109 per learner? If the amount didn’t include arrears, does it mean the Capitation for 2025 was Ksh 15,384 as was disbursed as opposed to Ksh 22,244?” Ndindi Nyoro.

Decline in education quality

The legislator warned that the lack of clarity and insufficient funding result in schools being perpetually in debt and contribute to a decline in the quality of education across the country. He called for reforms to ensure adequate funding for all learners and urged the government to address issues affecting the teaching and learning environment.

“All this confusion adds up to several undesirable outcomes – Schools are perpetually in debt and generally lowering the quality of Education. Lastly, our Brothers and Sisters serving as JSS Interns must be confirmed into Permanent and Pensionable terms.
We are African, and Africa is our Business.” Ndindi Nyoro.

Ndindi Nyoro warned that continued underfunding could compromise learning outcomes and the welfare of students.